Performance and Potential of Solar Power Plants on Canopy Roofs: Evaluation and Implications

Integrating solar power systems on canopy rooftops has emerged as a viable renewable energy solution, reducing reliance on conventional electricity sources and lowering operational expenses. This study evaluates the performance and potential of solar power systems installed on canopy roofs, emphasizing their technical, economic, and environmental impacts. The system demonstrates a strong energy conversion efficiency, with a Performance Ratio (PR) of 72.64% and a Capacity Utilization Factor (CUF) of 15.19%, indicating effective utilization of installed capacity. Although the system contributes significantly to reducing electricity costs, decreasing electricity bills by 37.5%, the payback period of 15 years and a negative Net Present Value (NPV) of-19.93 million rupiahs suggest that investment may not be financially viable without an increase in National Electricity Company (PLN) electricity tariffs. Environmentally, the system reduced CO₂ emissions by approximately 1.45 metric tons over seven months, equivalent to removing 0.32 cars from the road and comparable to the emission reduction achieved by a small wind turbine. Nevertheless, challenges such as fluctuating weather conditions impacting energy generation and high initial costs remain, highlighting the need for advanced technologies and policy support to enhance adoption.